Getting a life coach. One of the best decisions I made this year was hiring a life coach. At first–as some of you may recall–I was more than a little skeptical. It was a bit too “woo woo” and New Age for me. But it’s really helped. I went back to the gym, started writing again, and accomplished many other tasks that were holding me back. I’m still a work in progress, but I’m more or less happy with that progress. And the light bulb moments are AWESOME! It’s nice to know you have someone in your corner who is just as committed to seeing you succeed as you are.

One caveat: If you’re considering doing the same, make sure you do your research. Life coaches are like writers–anyone can call themselves one and there’s no essential certification. Obviously I recommend this one.

2) Kittens in bowls and dogs in leaves. I absolutely defy you not to smile while watching this video. Or this one. The Japanese are brilliant. Best game show ever!

3) 2Cellos. I love classical music. I also love rock music. These two guys put both genres together in a completely mind-blowing way. You haven’t heard GNR’s Welcome to the Jungle until you’ve heard it played on a cello.

4) Going back to my dojo. It was so difficult to return after over a year off that I can’t believe I’ve been absent for another month. Going back to kickboxing after a hiatus is hard, but it’s so rewarding. This doesn’t make me happy yet, but it will.

5) Getting back to writing. Whenever you fall, you have to pick yourself back up. I haven’t worked on my book since the writing retreat, and I was so close to finishing. The shame of it! I’m determined to get back to my novel in progress today. Like returning to my dojo, this doesn’t make me happy yet, but it will.

That’s what’s on my happy list for the week. What’s on yours?